Is landlord responsible for mold inspection in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks and I suspect it's from the black spots I found behind our bedroom wardrobe. We've lived in this Discovery Gardens apartment for two years and it's just gotten worse since the humidity started. Is the landlord responsible for arranging and paying for a proper mold inspection, or is that on me as the tenant?
Posted by Rahul Iyengar
Asked on April 4, 2026 7:30 pm
Based on the UAE Civil Code (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) and standard tenancy contract stipulations, the landlord is fundamentally responsible for maintaining the property in a habitable condition. This includes addressing structural and maintenance issues that lead to mold, such as leaking pipes, faulty waterproofing, or inadequate ventilation systems that are inherent to the building.

Your situation in Discovery Gardens is a classic example of the interplay between tenant lifestyle and landlord responsibility. The landlord is obligated to provide a property that is structurally sound. However, the extreme humidity and constant AC use prevalent in Dubai create significant condensation, a condition that often requires active management by the tenant through proper ventilation practices (e.g., running exhaust fans, periodically opening windows when outdoor humidity is lower). The black spots behind the wardrobe suggest a localized condensation point exacerbated by lack of air circulation, which can be a gray area.

Given that your children are exhibiting health symptoms, this elevates the situation beyond a simple cleaning task. A professional inspection is critical to determine the root cause (e.g., is there a hidden leak in the wall from the AC drain line, or is it purely surface condensation?) and the extent of the contamination. The inspector's report will be the key document that definitively allocates responsibility between you and the landlord.

We strongly recommend you contact the landlord immediately, inform them of the suspected mold and health concerns, and request a professional assessment. For a comprehensive inspection that includes moisture mapping and air quality testing to provide an irrefutable report, you can call our specialists at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Saniservice’s certified inspectors can identify the source and provide the documentation needed to resolve the liability issue with your landlord.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 8:16 pm